Nearly 1,500 wildfires which broke out in Mid Wales over the past year were started deliberately according to new figures – accounting for more than three quarters of blazes in the area.

Many of the fires recorded between April 2010 and April 2011 are believed to have been started by bored or rebellious youngsters, while a number are believed to have been land clearance fires which spread out of control.

The figures have been revealed by Assembly Member Joyce Watson, who has obtained the data by submitting a Freedom of Information request to Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

She is now seeking an urgent meeting with Dyfed-Powys Police Authority and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority to discuss ways forward.

She will also be writing to five local authorties, including Powys County Council, to see what strategies they have in place.

During the period, fire brigades attended 1,889 wildfires, of which 454 were accidental and 1,435 – 76 per cent – were started deliberately.

Mrs Watson said: “I was shocked to discover how many fires have been started deliberately. Wildfires not only put human and animal lives at risk, causing huge damage, cost and inconvenience, they also divert our emergency services from other incidents.

“The fire service and police have to work closely with councils and communities to change attitudes.

“Young people should be aware of the potential danger to others and themselves, and parents must play their roles too.

“It is disturbing that three quarters of these fires have been started deliberately, and I am determined to see action on this.”

A recent report from the Forestry Commission in the wake of a number of incidents in south Wales listed boredom, acts of rebellion and fun as reasons for fires being started. Recently, major fires have broken out in Pembrokeshire and the Brecon Beacons.

By Peter Kitchen